Donating to the Olympia Amateur Radio Society

Radio equipment isn't just hardware; it’s a lifetime of connections, technical mastery, and stories. At OARS, we understand the value of your gear and the passion behind it. Whether you are downsizing your shack, honoring a loved one, or looking to support the next generation of operators in the South Sound, your generosity keeps our community on the air. OARS is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization and as such, charitable monetary and equipment donations are tax deductible.

Elmering & Education

We use donated gear to help newly licensed hams get on the air and fund workshops or STEM programs.

Infrastructure

Sales of specialized equipment directly fund the maintenance of our local repeaters and club insurance.

Sustainability

We ensure that functional gear stays out of landfills and back in the hands of active operators.

Here are the ways you can support OARS:

Financial (Cash) Donations

Direct financial support funds our repeaters, community education programs, and emergency readiness initiatives. Every dollar goes directly into sustaining local amateur radio.

Online Financial Donation

Equipment Donations

Got working gear that needs a new home? We accept functional radios, towers, and accessories to help equip new hams or upgrade our club stations. Note the Equipment Donation Guidelines listed below.

Silent Key (SK) Legacy Donations

Managing a "Silent Key" estate can be overwhelming. OARS offers a compassionate, streamlined process for families to ensure equipment finds a home where it will be appreciated.

  • ✓ Consultation: We meet with you to assess the equipment and discuss the family's wishes.
  • ✓ Inventory & Removal: Our volunteers handle the heavy lifting and transport.
  • ✓ Honoring the Call: We maintain a record of the operator’s callsign in our archives.
  • ✓ Tax Documentation: As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we provide formal tax acknowledgments.
"We treat every piece of Silent Key equipment with the respect it deserves, ensuring it continues a lasting legacy."

Equipment Donation Guidelines

What We Can Accept

  • • Modern HF/VHF/UHF Transceivers
  • • Working Vintage/Tube Gear
  • • Test Equipment (Oscilloscopes, Analyzers)
  • • Quality Coax, Tuners, & Connectors
  • • Towers & Antennas (Subject to inspection)

Generally Cannot Take

  • • Non-working CRT Monitors
  • • Obsolete Home PC Hardware
  • • Severely Corroded Lead-Acid Batteries
  • • Consumer Electronics (TVs, VCRs)
  • • Household Appliances

How to Get Started

Interested in donating equipment or have questions for us? We'd love to hear from you—please reach out to our team.

Contact the Donation Team